Headrest with pivotable side support members

ABSTRACT

A headrest. In one embodiment, the headrest includes a rear head support potion and a wing member. In this embodiment, the wing member is rotatable upwardly and downwardly relative to the rear head support member to allow the wing member to be rotated vertically from a stowed position to a head support position. In this embodiment, the wing member is also pivotable horizontally relative to the rear head support portion.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a divisional of application Ser. No.09/932,587 (allowed), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.application Ser. No. 09/667,011 filed Aug. 20, 2000 which is acontinuation in part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/374,077, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,123,389, filed on Aug. 12, 1999, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/096,426, filed Aug. 13, 1998.

BACKGROUND

[0002] 1. Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to headrests. Moreparticularly, the present disclosure pertains to headrests that may beused in connection with or be integrally formed with vehicle seats, suchas car seats, train seats, airplane seats, child seats, or which may beused in conjunction with or form a part of furniture, stretchers, beds,or the like.

[0004] 2. Description of Related Art

[0005] Generally, a passenger in a passenger vehicle, such as anautomobile, airplane, bus or train, suffers significant neck strain whenresting since seats in such passenger vehicles typically provide supportonly to the back portion of the passenger's head. More specifically,since seats in such passenger vehicles are not designed to keep thepassenger's head in a substantially upright, vertical orientationrelative to the passenger's torso (e.g., when the passenger is at restor sleeping), neck strain may result due to the natural instability ofan unsupported head when no muscles are being used to support the head.

[0006] In order to alleviate such neck strain, various devices have beendeveloped. For instance, pillows designed to fit around the backside ofthe passenger's neck have been developed. Such neck pillows areinflatable with air or consist solely of a foam material. However, suchneck pillows generally do not provide adequate support to inhibit neckstrain due to their readily deformable or “sponge-like” nature. Further,use of such neck pillows tends to allow the entire body of the user toslide sideward because lateral acceleration causes the passenger's bodyto slip against the seat. In addition, such neck pillows typically donot allow passengers to adjust the configuration of the device to suitthe passenger's tastes or dimensions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0007] The present invention is illustrated by way of example and notlimitation in the Figures of the accompanying drawings.

[0008]FIG. 1 is perspective view of one embodiment of the headrest ofthe present invention;

[0009]FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the headrest illustrated in FIG. 1;

[0010] FIGS. 3A-3B are perspective views of another embodiment of theframe of the headrest of the present invention;

[0011] FIGS. 4A-4B are perspective views of the padding of the headrestof the present invention;

[0012]FIG. 5 is an embodiment of the headrest of the present invention;

[0013]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the portable headrest of thepresent invention;

[0014]FIG. 7 is a perspective, partially cut-away view of the portableheadrest illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0015] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate perspective, end and top views of oneembodiment of the frame of the headrest illustrated in FIG. 6;

[0016]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the headrestof the present invention, illustrating the unibody frame;

[0017]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of still another embodiment of theunibody frame of the headrest of the present invention, illustrating thecenter member positioned distal relative to the wing portions of theframe to clamp over an upper portion of a seatback;

[0018]FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the frameof the headrest of the present invention with wing portions beinghingedly connected to the frame which is releasably securable to anupper portion of a seatback;

[0019]FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the frameof the headrest of the present invention, illustrating the centerportion of the frame being positionable on a top portion of a seatbackand the wing portions being hingedly connected to end portions of thecenter portion;

[0020]FIG. 13 is a side view of the headrest of FIG. 6 mounted onto anupper portion of a seat, illustrating a person's head being supportedthereon;

[0021]FIG. 14 is a front view of the headrest of FIG. 6 mounted onto anupper portion of a seat;

[0022] FIGS. 15A-15E illustrate the headrest of FIG. 6 utilized invarious configurations, without use of the interconnecting member;

[0023] FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate another embodiment of the wing membersof the present invention;

[0024] FIGS. 17A-17B illustrate still another embodiment of the wingmembers of the present invention; and

[0025]FIG. 18 illustrates another embodiment of the headrest of thepresent invention, with the interconnecting members being stems.

[0026]FIGS. 19a and 19 b illustrate an embodiment having angularlyfolding wing members.

[0027]FIG. 20a illustrates one embodiment having a press-fit hingemechanism.

[0028]FIG. 20b illustrates one embodiment having a press-fit hingemechanism with an upper portion and a lower portion and a gap throughwhich a strap may be threaded to secure the headrest to a seat or otherobject.

[0029]FIG. 21a illustrates one embodiment having a center bar with ahollow yielding portion.

[0030]FIG. 21b illustrates one embodiment having a curved center bar.

[0031]FIG. 22 illustrates one embodiment of a one-sided headrest with anover-the-seat, compressive attachment member.

[0032]FIG. 23a illustrates one embodiment of a motorized headrest.

[0033]FIG. 23b illustrates another embodiment of a motorized headrest.

[0034]FIG. 23c illustrates one embodiment having a wing stowingcapability.

[0035]FIG. 23d illustrates another embodiment having a wing stowingcapability.

[0036]FIG. 24a illustrates an embodiment having a slide-on strapattachment member.

[0037]FIG. 24b illustrates a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 24a.

[0038]FIG. 25 illustrates one embodiment having a fold-over end portion.

[0039]FIG. 26a illustrates one embodiment utilizing a strap and supportmember attached to the strap to support a hinged wing.

[0040]FIG. 26b illustrates a top view of another embodiment utilizing astrap and support member attached to the strap to support a hinged wing.

[0041]FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment having a hinged center supportmember.

[0042]FIG. 28 illustrates another embodiment of a winged headrest.

[0043]FIG. 29 illustrates an embodiment of a headrest having a vibratingwing member.

[0044]FIG. 30 illustrates an embodiment of a stretcher having anintegral winged headrest.

[0045]FIG. 31 illustrates an embodiment of a child seat having a wingedheadrest.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The following description provides a description of variousfeatures and embodiments of headrests. In the following description,numerous specific details such as material types, shapes, fasteners,dimensions, and the like are provided in order to provide a morethorough understanding of the present invention. It will be appreciated,however, by one skilled in the art that the invention may be practicedwithout such specific details.

[0047] In one embodiment, the present invention is embodied in aheadrest for use in various land-based and air-based vehicles, such asautomobiles, buses, trains and airplanes. Generally, the headrest of thepresent invention may include a frame comprising a back member forsupportably engaging at least a back portion of a person's (e.g.,passenger's) head and first and second wing members for supportablyengaging first and second side portions, respectively, of the person'shead, and a first interconnecting member for attaching at least the backmember to a seat. The first and second wing members function to inhibitneck strain by supporting first and second side portions of thepassenger's head (e.g., cheekbone portions), respectively, when thepassenger falls asleep (depending upon to which side the passenger'shead is leaning). In one embodiment, the first and second wing membersare integrally formed with first and second end portions of the backmember as a unitary structure. In another embodiment, the first andsecond wing members are pivotally interconnected to first and second endportions of the back member, respectively. In both of these embodiments,the first and second wing members, in cooperation with the back member,provide a rigid structure or frame to support a person's head when suchperson's head falls to one side or the other when such person fallsasleep. In addition, such headrest may be utilized in variousconfigurations due to the adjustability of the first and second wingmembers. By virtue of this arrangement, virtually uninterrupted sleepmay be achieved without substantial neck strain since some embodimentsof the headrest of the present invention can supportably engage eitheror both sides of a person's head with the wing members. In analternative embodiment, the headrest of the present invention includesonly a single wing member interconnectable to the back member.

[0048] More specifically, in one embodiment, the headrest includes asubstantially C-shaped or U-shaped frame and an interconnecting memberfor attaching the frame to a seat, such as a passenger seat utilized inautomobiles, airplanes, buses and trains or an office-type of chair. Inthis embodiment, the rigid frame includes a back member for supportablyengaging at least a back portion of a person's head and first and secondwing members integrally formed with the back member at first and secondend portions of the back member. Such wing members are capable ofsupportably engaging first and second side portions of the person'shead. The frame may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid material having amodulus of elasticity (e.g., at least about 10⁶ PSI) and/or a yieldstrength of between about 3,000 PSI and about 30,000 PSI. In thisregard, the first and second wing members may be bent relative to theback member, such that the size of the cavity defined by the first andsecond wing members and back member is variable. As such, due to theadjustability of the first and second wing members relative to the backmember, various head sizes and configurations of the head support may beachieved while providing support to either side of an unsupported headat rest. The wing members are generally 6-7 inches in length from theback member to the tips of the wing members. The headrest of the presentinvention may also be used as a support device in other applications(e.g., lumbar area in automobile seats, the thoracic/rib cage area orthe leg or seat area of automobile seats, or alternatively, hospitalbeds, Rotorest™ or any lateral motion therapy bed). Such a support maybe utilized in other seats, such as dental chairs to locate or positiona patient's head in a fixed position, massage tables, chiropracticchairs and tables, and physical therapy tables (e.g., to strengthen thepatient's neck if injured and in need of physical therapy by applyingtorque to the wing members). Other uses of the support include reclinerchairs, chaise lounge chairs and infant or children's seats (e.g., carseats).

[0049] In another embodiment, width adjustability of the headrest isprovided by first and second hinge members, which hingedly interconnectthe first and second wing members, respectively, to first and second endportions of the back member, respectively. In order to provide suchadjustability, such that the first and second wing members are capableof supporting first and second side portions of a person's head, thefirst and second hinges may include a pivot adjustment mechanism forreleasably maintaining the first and second wing members, independently,at any of a plurality of pivot positions relative to the back member. Inthis regard, the first and second wing members may be moved to desiredconfigurations/positions relative to the back member and releasablyfixed in such configurations/positions to support first and second sideportions of a person's head when resting. Such adjustment not onlyprovides comfort to the user, but also may facilitate easy storage ofthe headrest by providing a foldable headrest (e.g., a headrest capableof lying flat), which occupies less space than other conventionalheadrests. In one embodiment, the hinge members comprise unbalancedhinges requiring less torque to move the first and second wing membersinwardly than to move the first and second wing members outwardly,towards an unfolded, open configuration. Such hinges (e.g., clutchspring hinge) also function to dampen the loads to provide a morecomfortable ride to the user. In an alternative embodiment,adjustability of the wing members is provided by motorizing the wingmembers by placing a geared motor(s) proximate the hingesinterconnecting the wing members to the back member. Such geared orcoupled motor(s) enables the user to easily adjust the angle of eachwing member relative to the back member. In yet another embodiment, thehinges are adapted to allow the wing members to not only move inwardlyand outwardly relative to the back member, but also upwardly anddownwardly (i.e., vertically) relative to the back member, to therebyallow the wing members to be stowed along the ends (i.e., sides) of theback member. In this embodiment, such hinges may further include a pinjoint or may otherwise comprise a ball joint. Alternatively, the hingesmay be adapted to allow the wing members to move only upwardly anddownwardly relative to the back member, the wing members being orientedin fixed relation relative to the back member at about 20 degrees toallow a person's head to rest against one or both wing members. Forpurposes of providing a light-weight yet durable headrest, the first andsecond wing members and/or the back member may comprise a light-weightmetal, such as aluminum, wood, composites, or a plastic, such as highdensity polyethylene (HDPE).

[0050] Some embodiments of the headrest of the present invention may beinterconnected to a passenger seat of a vehicle in various fashions,depending upon whether the embodiment is to replace a removable headrestinterconnected to a back seat portion of a passenger seat, or is to beutilized as a kit-type of add-on to an existing headrest of a passengerseat. In one embodiment, in instances where the headrest of the presentinvention will replace a conventional removable headrest, theinterconnecting member for attaching the headrest to the back seatportion of the passenger seat comprises at least a first post or stem(e.g., blade) which is interconnected or integrally formed with the backmember of the headrest. Such post or stem may be configured to bereceived within an existing post-receiving channel which extendsvertically through at least a portion of the back seat portion of thepassenger seat. Such posts or stems are particularly useful whencombined with the headrest of the present invention to provide lateralsupport to users when subjected to torque loading. In instances wherethe headrest will be attached to an existing, conventional headrest of apassenger seat, the interconnecting member may comprise a first strapadapted to extend around the perimeter of the conventional headrest.Such strap may be of a non-slip nature (e.g., non-slip suede, vinyl, orother similar high coefficient of friction material) and include atleast a first fastening mechanism, such as Velcro, buckles, clamps,cinches, etc. for securing the strap about the conventional headrest ofthe passenger seat. Such non-slip material inhibits migration of theheadrest relative to the seat.

[0051] For purposes of providing comfort to the passenger, the headrestof the present invention may further include padding and a cover. In oneembodiment, where the frame comprises a unitary, integrally formedstructure, the padding may include a molded foam member which isreceivable over the frame, such that the frame is not exposed orotherwise contactable with the passenger's head. In order to providesufficient comfort while supporting a person's head, in one embodiment,the padding has 25% impact load deflection (ILD) of between about 1.0 toabout 3.5 and, in a preferred embodiment, between about 1.6 to about2.5. In one embodiment, the 25% ILD of the padding is about 2.3. In oneembodiment, the padding comprises a gel or foam material, such as aTempurepedic™ foam (e.g., a heat sensitive, highly conformablepolyurethane). In another embodiment, the padding may comprise first andsecond layers, whereby the first layer of padding has a durometergreater than the second layer of padding, the first layer of padding inabutting relation with the frame. In addition, in order to enhanceadherence of the padding to the frame, the frame may include a pluralityof hollowed or cut out areas while reducing the potential fordelamination and damage to the headrest. Alternatively, the padding maycomprise separate foam members each covering a specific portion of theframe. For example, first and second wing foam members may cover thefirst and second wing members, respectively, while a back foam membercovers the back member. The padding may also include a neck roll forabuttingly engaging a back portion of a user's head (e.g., protrusion onlower, back area of person's head, about the neck area). Such neck rollfunctions to position or align the user's head with the wing members andfurther to be the primary loading point on the back of the user's head.The neck roll enhances positioning of the wing members relative to theuser's eyes, such that the user can see over the wing members due toneck roll functioning as the primary locator point. In otherembodiments, the padding of at least the wing member is a soundabsorbing foam adapted to inhibit noise penetration (e.g., when the wingmembers are positioned over the user's ear(s). In another embodiment,the first and second wing members include first and second soundspeakers, respectively, which are in electrical communication (e.g., viaa standard jack phone system) with a portable stereo or other similardevice (e.g., automobile stereo, airplane sound system, etc.).Alternatively, such stereo system may be battery-powered andincorporated into the headrest. In still another embodiment, the firstand second wing members may include commercially available noisecancellation circuitry that is adapted to cancel ambient noise bygenerating 180° phase shifted frequencies to those ambient, therebycanceling the noise at the user's ear(s). In yet another embodiment, thewing members may include a sound system adapted to generate repeating orconstant frequencies that are soothing to listeners. Such sound systemmay be positioned in the wings or in the back member with controls(e.g., knobs) on the backside (e.g., non-head supporting) surface of thewings for easy control access during use. In still another embodiment,the headrest may include a pitch control mechanism, to provide furthercomfort to the user, such pitch control to allow the headrest to rollforward on a pawl that supports the headrest in a first, forwardposition until it is rolled fully forward at which point the pawl isreleased to allow the headrest to go back to an aft position.

[0052] In another embodiment, the present invention is related to aportable headrest which is adapted for use on a seat having an upperportion of a seatback for engaging the backside of a person's head.Generally, this embodiment of the present invention includes first andsecond wing portions capable of abuttingly engaging first and secondside portions of a person's head, respectively, a neck support membercapable of supporting or engaging a neck portion of the person's head ora base of the head portion of the person, the neck support memberinterconnecting or extending between the first and second side portions,and an interconnecting member for interconnecting the headrest to theseatback. Advantageously, the portable headrest of this embodiment ofthe present invention is designed to allow, if desired, the backside ofa person's head to be supported by the existing headrest or upperportion of the seatback (e.g., of a seat in vehicle or airplane). Inthis regard, the present invention is based, at least in part, uponapplicant's recognition of a problem with various existing headrests,which can position a user's head undesirably forward of the user's torsoor back due to the fact that a number of existing headrests utilize athick pad (in addition to the headrest or upper portion of the seatback)to supportably engage the backside of a person's head and the fact thatthe headrest or upper portion of seatback in newer model cars aretypically positioned forward or proximal the back support portion of theseatback. Alternatively, in the event such support is desired (e.g., ininstances where the existing headrest on an upper portion of a seatbackis not configured to be oriented forward or proximal a back supportportion of the seatback), the present invention can accommodate such byproviding a releasably securable pad adapted to be interconnected to theheadrest to abuttingly engage the backside of a person's head.

[0053] In one embodiment, the interconnecting member comprises a firststrap routable through first and second swivels mounted on the first andsecond portions of the neck support member. Such configuration allowsthe some embodiments to be securely interconnected to the upper portionof a seat while facilitating independent movement of each of the firstand second wing portions to desired pivot positions. In this regard, thepivot positions of the first and second wing portions may be adjustedwithout having to remove the headrest from the seat and/or withouthaving to loosen the strap. Such first strap may be secured about theperimeter of the upper portion of the seat, or alternatively about therear or back side of the upper portion of the seat, with the necksupport member abuttingly engaging the front side of the upper portionof the seat to securely interconnect this embodiment of a headrest ofthe present invention to the seat.

[0054] The portable headrest may further include first and secondtorsion springs for pivotally interconnecting the first and second wingportions to the first and second end portions of the neck supportmember, respectively, in order to allow the wing portion to be angularlyadjusted to various desired positions. In this embodiment, for purposesof adequately supporting the person's neck while allowing the first andsecond wing portions to support side portions of the person's head(e.g., proximate the cheek bones), the first and second end portions ofthe neck support member extend vertically upwardly relative to thehorizontally extending center portion of the neck support member. Suchfirst and second wing portions may be interconnected to the neck supportmember's end portions via the first and second torsion springs,respectively. In an alternative embodiment, the first and second wingportions are integrally formed with the neck support member to provide aunibody frame.

[0055] Furthermore, for purposes of providing a lightweight headrest,the neck support member and/or the first and second wing portions may betubular. For these embodiments, the neck support member and/or first andsecond wing members may be fabricated from a lightweight metal, such asaluminum, or a plastic material. Padding may be positioned on the wingportions and/or the neck support member to comfortably support the sidesof the user's head and/or the neck of the user, respectively.

[0056] In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to aportable headrest adapted to be releasably securable to a headrest orupper portion of a seat's seatback. In one embodiment, the headrest isadapted to be easily and efficiently securable to the upper portion of aseat's seatback with or without the use of straps or otherinterconnecting devices. In this embodiment, the portable headrestincludes first and second wing portions adapted to supportably orabuttingly engage side portions of a person's head, a center memberpositioned distally relative to the first and second wing portions forengaging a back surface of the seatback (e.g., an upper portion of theback surface of the seatback), and first and second intermediateportions extending between the first and second wing portions and thefirst and second end portions of the center member, respectively. Theportable headrest in this embodiment allows a user to rest the backsideof the person's head against the front surface of the upper portion ofthe seatback, if desired. In order to releasably secure this embodimentof the headrest of the present invention to the upper portion of theseatback, the first and second intermediate portions are substantiallyU-shaped. In one embodiment, the first and second intermediate portionsare configured to compressively engage (e.g., pinch) the upper portionof the seatback to hold the portable headrest in place. In particular,the first and second intermediate portions may each include opposingfirst and second legs the first and second legs being spaced apart atleast a first distance (e.g., proximate the center member), the firstdistance being less than the space between the front and back surfacesof a selected portion of the upper portion of the headrest. The firstand second wing portions, first and second intermediate portions and thecenter member may be integrally formed to provide a unibody frame. In analternative embodiment, the first and second wing portions are pivotallyor hingedly interconnectable to corresponding end portions of the firstand second intermediate portions via torsion springs. The portableheadrest of the present invention may further comprise first and secondwing pads positionable on the first and second wing portions,respectively, to provide comfort to the user. In an alternativeembodiment, the headrest may be configured such that the center memberengages a top portion of the seatback, and a strap may be utilized tosecure the headrest to an upper portion of the seatback.

[0057] In another embodiment, the first and second wing portions of theheadrest of the present invention are configured/designed in order toinhibit injuries to a person's head in the event of a collision. Morespecifically, the first and second wing portions may have a scoopconfiguration, wherein the tip or end portion of the wing is off/access,such that if the wing is positioned 90 degrees relative to the center orneck support member, in the event of a collision, or sudden breaking,the impact force has a moment outside of the hinge which should causethe wing portion or member to swing away. In another embodiment, thewing members are collapsible scoops, in configuration, such that thescooped wing member acts as a crush zone (e.g., the wing member maycomprise plastic which would buckle or bend under an impact). Such acollapsible wing member also has a straight or non-curved configuration.

[0058] FIGS. 1-4B illustrate the various features and characteristics ofsome embodiments of the present invention. Generally, for purposes ofsupporting a person's head when such person falls asleep in a seated orprone position (e.g., when seated or lying down in a car seat, trainseat, airplane seat, bus seat, etc. or a chair), some embodiments of theheadrest of the present invention generally include a rigid orsemi-rigid frame having first and second wing members and a back memberinterposed therebetween, and at least a first padding memberinterposable between the person's head and at least one of the first andsecond wing members and back member. Due to the support provided by therigid or semi-rigid frame, neck strain is substantially inhibited orotherwise reduced.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, in one embodiment of the headrest of thepresent invention, the headrest 10 generally includes first and secondside or wing portions 14, 18 for supportably engaging side portions of aperson's head, especially when the person is seated, a back portion 22for supportably engaging a back portion of a person's head, especiallywhen at rest, and an interconnecting member 26 for securing the headrestto a seat. For purposes of inhibiting slippage of the headrest 10relative to a seat, in this embodiment, the headrest 10 further includesa pitch restraint member 30 which is adapted to engage (e.g., in apressure fit manner) a top portion of the seat (e.g., an existingheadrest portion of the seat).

[0060] More specifically, and referring to FIG. 2, the headrest 10 ofthis particular embodiment of the present invention includes asemi-rigid or rigid frame 34, a padding member 38 and a strap 42 forinterconnecting the headrest to a seat. For purposes of adequatelysupporting a person's head, and in particular a person's head when theperson is asleep and the head is tilted to one side or the other, theframe member 34 is generally C-shaped or U-shaped, and includes firstand second wing members 35 a, 35 b for supporting a person's head (e.g.,side portions of the person's unsupported head) and a back member 35 c,which is adapted to provide the interface between the first and secondwing members 35 a, 35 b and the seat, via the strap 42, which isfeedable through the vertical slots 43 a, 43 b of the back member 35 c(which will be described in more detail hereinbelow). In thisembodiment, the first and second wing members 35 a, 35 b are integrallyformed with the back member 35 c. In addition, in order to provideadjustability in the size of the cavity formed by the headrest 10 (e.g.,width adjustability), the first and second wing members 35 a, 35 b arepivotable relative to the back member 35 c. In this regard, the frame 34may comprise a bendable material, such as aluminum, aluminum alloys,plastic, composite or steel. The frame 34 is sufficiently stiff tosupport lateral loads of up to 8 pounds (i.e., 40 in.-lbs.) at the tipsof the wing members 35 a, 35 b and to support the weight of the wings.In this regard, the headrest may fold to a flattened configuration if 45in.-lbs. or more were applied to the wing members. Such a headrestprovides safety features as it would buckle under light impact loads tothe tips of the wing members (i.e., column strength is weak) and 45in.-lbs. under lateral loads. Such frame may be fabricated from athermoplastic elastomer, such as Hytrel. Alternatively, the frame may befabricated from a shape memory alloy, such as nickel titanium, whichcould provide for some adjustability of the wing members relative to theback member. As such, the frame member 34, and specifically, the firstand second wing members 35 a, 35 b are capable of being bent relative tothe back member 35 c, in a hinge fashion, and are capable ofsubstantially maintaining such orientation relative to the back memberto suitably support a head at rest thereon. Such width adjustability isenhanced by providing at least one cut out or slotted area 36 in eachhinge area of the frame member 34. Advantageously, the first and secondwing members 35 a, 35 b are independently movable relative to each otherand the back member 35 c, which enables a user to move the wing membersto any of a number of desired positions relative to each other and tothe back member 35 c. It should be noted that such cut out areas 36 alsofunction to ensure that the padding member 38 is anchored to the framemember 34 as portions of the padding member 38 proximate such cut outareas 36 fill such cut out areas 36.

[0061] The strap 42 generally functions to interconnect the frame member34 to a seat or chair. In this embodiment, and referring to FIGS. 1 and2, the strap 42 is receivable within the slots 43 a, 43 b of the backmember 35 c, and comprises a hook and loop fastener (e.g., Velcro) tosecure end portions 44 a, 44 b of the strap 42 to intermediate portions45 a, 45 b of the strap 42, respectively, whereby a middle portion 46 ofthe strap is loopable around a back portion of a seat. Use of such astrap 42 allows for a quick and efficient installation onto a seatwithout endangering passengers positioned in back of the seat.Alternatively, the strap may include one or more buckles, cinches,clamps and other similar fastening devices for attaching the headrest 10onto a seat. Such strap 42 enables this embodiment of the headrest 10 ofthe present invention to be secured to substantially any type ofin-place existing headrest of a seat, such as automobile seats, airplaneseats, train seats, bus seats, office chairs and other similar types ofseat structures.

[0062] As noted hereinabove, the headrest 10 also includes a paddingmember 38. In one embodiment, the padding member is a molded foamheadrest. The frame member 34 may be molded into the padding member 38.Generally, the inner surfaces of the first and second wing portions 39a, 39 b of the padding member 38 are fully radiused so that sideportions of an unsupported head of a person can contact the headrest atvirtually any angle, from horizontal to vertical, in a comfortablemanner. The back portion 39 c of the padding member 38 transitions tothe wing portions 39 a, 39 b in a relatively large radius, upon which anunsupported rear portion of a head may be supported. Further, in thisembodiment, for purposes of adequately supporting a person's unsupportedhead, the padding member 38 has a 25% ILD between about 1.6 and about2.6, and more particularly, between about 1.8 and about 2.4. In apreferred embodiment, the 25% ILD of the padding is about 2.1.Alternatively, in order to enhance comfort, a first layer in contactwith the frame member 34 may comprise a stiff, light weight foam while asecond layer interposable between the head of a person and the firstlayer may have a softer, lower durometer to provide a softer, morecushioned support. Finally, the padding member 38 is configured toadequately support the back portion of a person's head while supportablyengaging cheekbone portions of a person's head. More specifically, thepadding member 38 is configured such that the top surface 40 c of theback portion of the padding member is higher than the top surfaces 40 a,40 b of the wing portions 39 a, 39 b.

[0063] Optionally, and as illustrated in FIG. 2, the headrest 10 mayfurther comprise a cover 46 for enhancing comfort and for facilitatingcleaning of the headrest 10. In one embodiment, the cover comprisesleather, lycra, cotton, vinyl, Polartec® or other similar materials. Thecover is removable and should be washable for hygiene purposes. Inaddition, the cover should be configured to snugly fit about the paddingmember 38 and may additionally include slots on the backside thereof toaccommodate the strap 42. The headrest 10 may further include a pitchrestraint member 50 interconnectable to the cover or frame. The pitchrestraint member 50 is a vertical strap interconnectable to the top partof the back member 22, the strap 52 being loopable over the top of theheadrest 10 and releasably attachable to the cover 46 via a fastener(e.g., Velcro, snap, buckle, etc.). The pitch restraint strap 50provides a three point mount to secure the headrest 10 to a seatheadrest, which inhibits rolling down of the headrest 10 when a userleans against one of the wing members 35 a, 35 b.

[0064] In another embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 3A-5, the headrest isadapted as a replacement for existing removable headrests onautomobile-type seats. Generally, the headrest 110 illustrated in FIG. 5includes first and second side portions 114. 118, a back member 122 andan interconnecting member 142 for securing the headrest to an existingseat. More specifically, and referring to FIGS. 3A-3B, the headrestincludes a semi-rigid or rigid frame 134 comprising first and secondwing members 135 a, 135 b which are pivotally interconnectable to a backmember 135 c via hinge members 136 a, 136 b, and first and second wingpad members 139 a, 139 b for covering first and second wing members 135a, 135 b, along with a back pad member 139 c for covering the backmember 135 c. Also included is an additional neck roll pad 139 d on theback pad member 139 c for abuttingly engaging a or lower area of thebackside of a person's head. In this embodiment, the first and secondwing members 135 a, 135 b and the back member 135 c function to providea rigid support structure for supporting an unsupported head of a personat rest or seated, substantially as described hereinabove with respectto the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-2. In this regard, the firstand second wing members and back member 135 a, 135 b, 135 c may comprisea rigid material, such as aluminum, plastic, steel or other composite.The wing members 135 a, 135 b are generally rectangular in shape, andhave a height less than that of the back member 135 c. In addition, forpurposes of reducing viewing interference when a user wishes to looksideways, such that the user can rest while looking over the wingmembers, the neck roll pad 139 d is positionable between the upper andlower walls of the wing members 135 a, 135 b. Advantageously, the widthof the back member 135 c is about 6.5 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inch,such that the head of the user will be comfortably received within thecavity of the headrest without having to adjust the wing members 135 a,135 b inwardly to such a degree (e.g., 80 degrees or more relative tothe back member) that the wing members become a safety concern,especially in instances of acceleration or deceleration where the headmay be forced back toward the headrest. Of importance, in thisembodiment, the hinge members 136 a, 136 b function to allow pivotal orhinged movement of the wing members 135 a, 135 b relative to the backmember 135 c. Such pivotal movement of the first wing member 135 a isindependent of the pivotal movement of the second wing member 135 b toprovide numerous comfort configurations for the user. Such hinge members136 a, 136 b also allow the headrest 110 to be used or otherwise stowedin a flattened configuration (e.g., 180 degrees relative to each member,or otherwise folded to provide a compact, easily storable headrest).Although the degree of rotation of the first and/or second wings may bevaried relative to the front surface of the back member 135 c, forsafety reasons, rotation of the first and second wing members 135 a, 135b, in a preferred embodiment, is limited to less than about 250 degreesrelative to a front surface of the back member 135 c.

[0065] In one embodiment, the first and second hinge mechanisms 136 a,136 b comprise unbalanced hinges (e.g., springs with definable frictionconsistent over a range of motion, such as clutch springs, torsionsprings, etc.), whereby a first torque is required to rotate the firstand second wing members 135 a, 135 b inwardly, towards the front surfaceof the back 135 c, and a second torque different than the first torqueis required to rotate the first and/or second wing member 135 a, 135 boutwardly, away from the front surface of the back member 135 c. Thefirst torque may be less than the second torque. For instance, the firsttorque required to rotate the first and/or second wing members 35 a, 135b inwardly is about 25 inch pounds while the second torque required torotate the first and/or second wing members 135 a, 135 b outwardly,relative to the back member 135 c is about 35 inch pounds. In thisregard, the hinge mechanisms 136 a, 136 b, in cooperation with the firstand second wing members 135 a, 135 b and the back member 135 c cansupport an unsupported head of a person while maintaining theirrespective position and/or orientation relative to each other. Inanother embodiment, the hinges may comprise a hinge mechanism which isadapted to allow the first and/or second wing member to be rotatedinwardly and/or outwardly relative to the front surface of the backmember 135 c, such that the first and/or second wing members 135 a, 135b are substantially parallel to the back member 135 c to facilitatestorage of the headrest. In this embodiment, the hinge mechanisms 136 a,136 b define hinge axes which are coplanar and parallel to each other.In another embodiment (not shown), the hinge axes may be coplanar andnot parallel to potentially provide enhanced comfort to a user. Inaddition, the first and second hinge mechanisms may be balanced hinges.Further, in still another embodiment, the hinge mechanism may comprisean adjustable coil mechanism.

[0066] For safety purposes, the wing members can be limited in theirdegree of motions. In this regard, the headrest 110 further includesfirst and second wing rotation stops 162 a, 162 b which function toensure that the wing members 135 a, 135 b do not close (i.e., rotateinwardly). The wing rotation stops 162 a, 162 b thus prevent the wingmembers 135 a, 135 b from rotating beyond a selected orientationrelative the back member 135 c, which is especially useful in instances(e.g., accidents) during sudden braking or deceleration where the usermay be thrown back against the headrest 110. As such, the wing rotationstops 162 a, 162 b limit the wing members 135 a, 135 b from rotatinginwardly or forwardly relative to the back member 135 a beyond aselected angle (e.g., 70 degrees). In one embodiment, the wing rotationstops 162 a, 162 b include a bar comprising metal or other high strengthmaterial mountable to the end portion of the back member, the baradapted to bear upon the wing members when the wing members 135 a, 135 brotate inwardly. Alternatively, the wing rotation stops 162 a, 162 bcomprise a roll pin or dowel mounted on each of the spindles of thetension spring plates (i.e., hinges) varying the position of the wingmembers 135 a, 135 b relative to the end portions of the back member(e.g., extending the distance between the wing member mounting holes andthe back member), or by mounting a bar or a rod between the two platesof each hinge, such bar being mounted along the axes of the hingespindles but offset the diameter of the spindles and material to enableit to swing until contacting the hinge plate of the other section. Instill another alternative embodiment, high durometer foam wedges arepositionable on the front faces of the wing members. Such wedges may bebonded or glued to the wing members, and would allow the wing members torotate no more than 70 degrees forward (e.g., from a flat configuration)with 45 degrees of the 70 degrees being limited by the wing frame andthe remaining 25 degrees by the wedge for each wing member. The headrestmay alternatively include an automatic wing retraction system (e.g., ifwings are motorized) which would function to retract the wings to a flatconfiguration (e.g., substantially planar with back members) when suddenacceleration or deceleration is sensed. In this regard, the wingretraction system may include a “g” sensor or an airbag type of triggersensor to initiate retraction of the wings.

[0067] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-4, the interconnectingmember comprises one or more stems or rods attached to the base of theback member 135 c. In this regard, the headrest may replace existingremovable headrests in automobile seats or other similar type seats.Such stems or rods 142 may comprise a metallic material such as steel,to adequately support a head during rear-end collisions (e.g., forautomobile applications) and while the user is at rest. Such rods 142may also include a plurality of notches to provide height adjustabilityof the back member relative to an automobile seat interconnectedthereto, since such automobile seats typically include a channel or tubefor receiving such rods 142 and a height adjustment mechanismoperatively mounted with such notches 143. In an alternative embodiment,the headrest may instead include a strap for securing the headrest to aseat or headrest portion of an existing seat. Such a strap ispositionable adjacent to the hinge axes defined by the first and secondhinges 136 a, 136 b and may be looped through slots in the back member136 c, substantially as described hereinabove with respect to theembodiment of the headrest illustrated in FIGS. 1-2. In the illustratedembodiment, the back member 136 c includes insert areas which allow thestrap to be positioned close to the hinges, such that the mounting strapis located largely along or about the hinge axis. Such insert areaenhances stability. The headrest may further include a releasablelocking mechanism (e.g., a tab on the hinge) for locking the firstand/or second wing members in at least one of various positionalorientations relative to the back member 135 c.

[0068] FIGS. 6-18 illustrate additional embodiments of the headrest ofthe present invention. Referring to FIGS. 6, 7, 8A-8C, 13 and 14, in oneembodiment, the headrest 210 of the present invention generally includesa frame 220, padding covering portions of the frame 220 which engageside portions of a person's head and a neck portion of the person, andan interconnecting member for securing or interconnecting the portableheadrest to a seatback. More specifically, the headrest 210 includesfirst and second wings 214, 218 for supportably engaging side portionsof a person's head, especially when the person is seated, and a neckportion 224 capable of abuttingly or supportably engaging a portion ofthe neck of a person. In particular, the frame includes a rigid necksupport member 230 which extends between and interconnects first andsecond rigid wing members 235 a, 235 b at first and second verticallyextending end portions 238 a, 238 b of the frame which are integrallyformed with the neck support member 230. In order to secure the portableheadrest 210 to an upper portion of a seatback, the headrest 210 furtherincludes a first strap 226 which is loopable through first and secondswivels 270 a, 270 b, which correspond to the hinge axes about which thefirst and second wings 214, 218 are pivotally moveable relative to theneck support member 224. Advantageously, movement of the wing members214, 218 is accomplished independently of the first strap 226, such thatloosening of the first strap 226 is not required to move the wingmembers 214, 218 to the desired pivot positions. Such swivels 270 a, 270b are interconnectable to the first and second hinges 234 a, 234 b,respectively. As with previous embodiments, the first strap may includea releasable fastener, such as a snap, clasp, or Velcro in order tosecure the first strap 226 around an upper portion of the seatback toreleaseably secure the portable headrest 210 thereto. Alternatively, andas illustrated in FIG. 18, the headrest 210 may include first and secondstems 290 a, 290 b which are receivable within channels of the seatback(not shown) to interconnect the portable headrest 210 to a seatback,substantially as described hereinabove in relation to other embodiments.

[0069] As in previous embodiments, the wings 214, 218 are angularlyadjustable to accommodate varying positions of comfort for the user. Inthis embodiment, and as noted hereinabove, the wing members 235 a, 235 bare pivotally interconnected to the first and second end portions 238 a,238 b via first and second hinge mechanisms 234 a, 234 b. In thisembodiment, and as discussed hereinabove with regard to otherembodiments, such hinge mechanisms may comprise torsion springs. Inaddition, in order to inhibit injury to a person's head, especiallyduring severe deceleration or in the event of a collision, rotationstops 280 a, 280 b may be utilized to prevent the wing members 235 a,235 b from rotating more than a desired angular orientation (e.g., 70°relative to the neck support member). Such rotation stops may be knurledpress fittings which are interconnectable to the first and second endportions 238 a, 238 b.

[0070] Of importance, the headrest 210 of the present invention utilizesthe neck portion 224 to support a neck of a person (as opposed to abackside of a person's head). In one embodiment, the neck portion 224includes the center member 230 and a pad 250 positioned thereover toprovide comfort to the user. In this embodiment, the neck portion issubstantially positioned co-planar with lower surfaces 215 a, 219 a ofthe wings 214, 218, respectively. In other embodiments, the neck portion224 is positionable below such lower surfaces 215 a, 219 a of the firstand second wing 214, 218, respectively. As such, the backside of aperson's head may be abuttingly engageable with the existing upper orheadrest portion of the seatback. In this regard, the portable headrest210 of the present invention may accommodate late model vehicles whichtypically position a headrest or upper portion of a seatback forward orproximal the back support portion of the seatback in order to minimizewhiplash injuries. The present invention may also accommodate oldermodel cars which do not employ forwardly positioned headrest portions ofseatbacks by providing a first pad member 260 having a releaseablefastener such as Velcro to releaseably secure the first pad member 260to the seatback itself or to the strap 226. Such pad member 260 mayinclude foam, or alternatively, be inflatable to provide to the useradjustability in cushioning.

[0071]FIGS. 9 and 10 of the present application illustrate alternativeembodiments of the frame of the portable headrest of the presentinvention. In one embodiment, the frame 320 is a unibody frame in whichthe center neck support member member 330 is integrally formed with thefirst and second wing members or portions 335 a, 335 b to form a unibodyframe 320. In this embodiment, the frame 320 comprises a tube fabricatedfrom a metal, such as aluminum, or a hard plastic. The first and secondwing members 335 a, 335 b are angularly fixed relative 320 to the centerneck support member 330 at various angular positions desirable for auser to rest their head. As with the above-described embodiment, thecenter neck support member 330 is positionable at or below a planedefined by the first and second lower surfaces 315 a, 319 a of the firstand second wings 314, 318, respectively, in order to supportably engagethe neck portion of a person. In order to provide comfort to the user,the center neck support member 330 includes a pad 350. In an alternativeembodiment, the wing portions 335 a, 335 b are releaseably securable tothe center neck support member 330 via appropriate fasteners (e.g.,threaded rod, male/female snap/fitting, twist-on attachment, etc.) inorder to enhance portability and storability of the headrest. A firststrap 326 is used in this embodiment to releaseably secure the portableheadrest to an upper portion of a seatback.

[0072] In another embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 10, the portableheadrest of the present invention is designed to be releaseablysecurable to an upper portion or headrest portion of the seatbackwithout the use of straps or other similar devices. In this embodiment,the headrest includes a frame 420 having a center member 430 whichextends between and interconnects first and second wing members 435 a,435 b via first and second intermediate portions 440 a, 440 b, which aregenerally U-shaped in configuration. Of importance in this embodiment,the center member 430 is positioned distal or behind the first andsecond wing members 435 a, 435 b such that the center member 430 isengageable with a backside of the seatback, in the upper portion orheadrest portion of the seatback. In order to adequately secure thisembodiment of the headrest of the present invention to an upper orheadrest portion of a seatback, especially during use, the first andsecond intermediate portions 440 a, 440 b are designed to allow theframe 420 to compressively engage or pinch the upper portion of theseatback. In this regard, the first and second legs 442 a, 442 b and 444a, 444 b are spaced apart a distance l₁, l₂, respectively, which is lessthan the distance between front and back surfaces of a portion of theheadrest or upper portion of the seatback (e.g., proximate the centermember 430). FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the frameillustrated in FIG. 10, showing the wing members 535 a, 535 b beinghingedly or pivotally interconnected to end portions of the intermediateportions 540 a, 540 b of the frame 520. In this embodiment, the hingemechanisms utilized to provide angular adjustability of the wing members535 a, 535 b relative to the center member 530 include torsion springs534 a, 534 b. In still another embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 12, theframe 620 of the headrest of the present invention includes a centermember 630 which is co-planar with hinge axes defined by the hinges 634a, 634 b which hingedly interconnect the wing members 634 a, 634 b,respectively, to the center member 630 via first and second intermediateportions 640 a, 640 b. The headrest further includes strap 626 loopablearound the intermediate portions 640 a, 640 b proximate the hinges 634a, 634 b.

[0073] FIGS. 15A-15E illustrate various configurations in which theheadrest illustrated in FIG. 6 may be utilized. For example, andreferring to FIG. 15A, the headrest 210 may be configured and/ororiented to the illustrated configuration, such that the headrest 210may be utilized between a person's head and shoulder to support theperson's head (e.g., whereby the wing member 218 abuttingly engages aperson's shoulder and the side of a person's head is supported by wingmember 214). FIG. 15B illustrates another alternative configuration ofthe headrest 210, whereby the headrest 210 in this “Z-shaped”configuration may be placed between a person's head and a window of thevehicle (e.g., airplane window, train window, automobile window, etc.)to support a person's head. FIG. 15C illustrates yet anotherconfiguration of the headrest 210, whereby wing member 214 may support aperson's head, wing member 218 abuttingly engage a person's shoulder,and neck support member 224 may abuttingly engage the window of avehicle. FIG. 15D illustrates still another configuration in which theheadrest 210 may be utilized to support a person's head. In thisconfiguration, the wing member 218 and neck support member 224 may bepositioned between adjacent seats (e.g., on the train or airplane), suchthat the headrest 210 is wedged therebetween, and a person's head issupportable by wing member 214. Finally, FIG. 15E illustrates a foldedconfiguration of headrest 210, such that the headrest 210 is storable ina small, compact arrangement. In this regard, in order to achieve suchconfigurations, the torsion springs interconnecting the wing members tothe neck support members may allow 360° rotation.

[0074] In another embodiment, the wing members are designed to avoidinjuring the person utilizing the headrest of the present invention. Inone embodiment, the middle portion of the wing member is transverse oroffset relative to the end portions or segments of the wing member tofacilitate buckling of the wing member when subject to a compressiveload (e.g., applied to the end of the wing member). FIGS. 16A-16B andFIGS. 17A-17B illustrate first and second rigid wing members 235 a, 235b which provide additional safety to the user. Referring to FIGS.16A-16B, a curved or scooped wing member is provided to enhance safety.More specifically, the end portion 285 of the wing member 235 a is“off-axis,” such that in the event of sudden deceleration or acollision, the forces generated thereby would provide a moment outsideof the hinge attached to the wing member 235 a, which would cause thewing member 235 a to swing away and/or buckle. FIGS. 17A-17B illustratea collapsible wing member 235 a which is designed to buckle or bend inthe event a person's head impacts the wing member. In this regard, thewing member 235 a would act as a crush zone and would plastically yieldbut not permanently deform. As such, the wing members may be fabricatedfrom a plastic material, such as polyethylene.

[0075]FIGS. 19a and 19 b illustrate other embodiments of a wingedheadrest. The embodiments of FIGS. 19a and 19 b illustrate a headresthaving angularly folding wing members. The wing members are hinged in amanner such that they rotate slightly eccentrically, closing inwardly toa folded position with one wing member above the other wing member,resulting in a more compact storage position. As can be seen in FIG.19a, wing member 1905 folds above wing member 1910 when the wing membersare folded inwardly to the closed or folded position.

[0076] In the embodiment of FIG. 19a, the wing member has a bore that isaligned to cause this angular motion when the wing is folded inwardly.In particular, the bore 1915 is angled inwardly away from the back edgeof the wing 1905 to cause the wing 1905 to rotate slightly upwardly whenrotated inwardly toward the central support bar 1930. Similarly, a bore1920 is angled outwardly towards the back edge of the wing 1910, causingthe wing 1910 to rotate slightly downwardly when rotated inwardly towardthe central support bar 1930. Other embodiments may have variouslyshaped wings and the geometric positions or angles may differ. The angleused may be a function of the length of the central support bar, thesize of the wings, the thickness of any wing padding, the expected angleduring use, etc.

[0077] When rotated outwardly to a selected usage angle, the wings 1905and 1910 return to an angle where their bottom surfaces areapproximately planar to each other. Throughout the range of motion inwhich a user is likely to use the wings for head support (e.g.,approximately seventy to one hundred ten degrees from the foldedposition), the wing orientation changes only slightly so that the wingbottoms remain approximately planar with respect to each other. Forexample, the headrest may be designed such that a seven degree angle issufficient to cause the wings to rest above and below each other in thefolded position, but the wing bottoms align when folded outwardlyapproximately one hundred degrees from the folded position.

[0078] In the embodiment of FIG. 19a, a vertically extending end portion1940 is received by a bore 1915. The bore 1915 is slightly too smallrelative to the end portion 1940. Thus, the wing 1905 is press fit ontothe vertically extending end portion 1940 to provide a friction hinge.Similarly, on the other side, a second vertically extending end portion1935 is received by a second bore 1920, which is also slightlyundersized. The wing 1910 is press fit onto the end portion 1935 to forma friction hinge structure. Each friction hinge is capable of supportingthe weight of a human head leaning against the wing and yielding toallow the wing to rotate about the hinge axis when a greater force isapplied. In one embodiment, the hinge formed by the bore 1915 and theend portion 1940 maintains the wing position until a torque of betweenfifteen and thirty-five inch pounds is applied.

[0079] The embodiment of FIG. 19b similarly provides overlapping wings1975 and 1980 in the folded position. Again, these wings fold out to arelatively planar position when in the range of motion expected withtypical usage. The embodiment of FIG. 19b differs, however, from theembodiment of FIG. 19a in that the vertically extending end potions 1965and 1970 are bent at an angle off from perpendicular to a centralsupport bar 1960, rather than the bores being angled with respect to thewing members.

[0080]FIG. 20a illustrates one embodiment of a press-fit hinge mechanismwhich may be used with a variety of the winged headrests disclosed. Ofcourse, as with other embodiments of the invention, any type of hingethat has friction over a range of motion sufficient to support theweight of a human head leaning against a hinged wing, yet which isadjustable by applying a greater force may be used. Various other designor application-related considerations (e.g., materials to use, havingsplit or single hinge members, size, weight, integration into a seat,etc.) may motivate one of skill in the art to make modifications orsubstitutions falling within the scope of invention. In the embodimentof FIG. 20a, a support member 2015 supports a wing member 2005 hingedlyattached to an end portion 2020 that extends vertically upward from thesupport member 2015. In some embodiments, the end portion may vary frombeing perpendicular to the support member 2015. Both the support memberand the end portion may vary in shape (being curved, bent, angled, orotherwise shaped) for structural, ergonomic, cost, or other reasons.

[0081] Another wing (not shown) may be provided, or a one-sided headrestmay be implemented in some embodiments. The wing member 2005 includes anend portion which is sufficiently wide to accommodate a bore 2010. Thebore 2010 may be formed in an integral portion of the wing (which may bea cost effective solution) or may be formed in a part of a separatecomponent attached to the wing member. The bore 2010 is formed slightlysmaller than the end portion 2020. The wing 2005 is pressed into placeover the end portion 2020, forming a snug fit, which allows rotation ofthe wing member, but yet provides a sufficient degree of friction tosupport the weight of a human head leaning against the wing 2005. Theamount of friction should also be small enough to allow a user to movethe wing 2005 by applying a greater force than just the weight of a headleaning against the wing. For example a torque of between fifteen inchpounds and thirty inch pounds may be an appropriate level at which thewing friction is overcome.

[0082] Many alternative embodiments of press-fit hinges may be used aswill be apparent to one of skill in the art. The materials of the endportion 2020 and/or the wing 2005, or the portion of the wing 2005 whichhouses the bore 2010 may be altered, for example. Thus, a different boreto end portion size differential may be required depending on thevarious characteristics of the materials (malleability, compressibility,surface coefficients of friction, lubricants used, hoop stress, creepstress, coefficients of thermal expansion, etc.).

[0083] Another alternative embodiment for a hinge that may be used witha variety of headrests is shown in FIG. 20b. The embodiment of FIG. 20bincludes a wing member 2040 hingedly attached to an end portion of asupport member 2025 by a press-fit hinge mechanism. The press fit hingemechanism in this embodiment is a friction hinge having an upper portion2050, a lower portion 2045 and a gap between the upper portion 2050 andthe lower portion 2045 in which a strap 2030 may be positioned to securethe headrest to a seat or other object. Press-fit hinge portions orother types of hinges may be used to provide a split or multi-hingearrangement.

[0084] Although the embodiment of FIG. 20b illustrates a single gapbetween upper and lower portions of the hinge mechanism, otherembodiments may use other arrangements. For example, one embodiment mayinclude multiple straps positioned between discrete or attached hingeportions which allow gaps for the straps. Another embodiment may utilizea single hinge portion (which may be larger than the single upperportion shown in FIG. 20b) and then have a strap seat or guide (e.g., ahorizontally aligned indentation in the vertically extending end portionof the support member) to help hold the strap in place when the headrestis strapped in place. Two strap guides, one on each side of the headrestassembly, may be provided in the case of a two wing headrest.

[0085]FIG. 21a illustrates one embodiment of a center bar 2110 having ahollow yielding portion. The center portion may yield in that it mayactually break or it may temporarily or permanently deform in responseto an impact. In the embodiment of FIG. 21a, the center bar 2110includes a cavity or aperture 2120. The aperture 2120 may simply be ahollowed out portion within a tubular center member. The aperture may beelliptically shaped, and may be positioned slightly forward of thecenter of the bar member. As a result, when a head 2100 impacts thecenter bar 2110 with a large amount of force, as may be expected in avehicle crash, the bar is likely to deform bending backwardly to a shapesimilar to that shown in FIG. 21b. In one embodiment, the tube deformsat a force of greater than forty pounds per square inch and breaks at aforce of greater than sixty pounds per square inch. In otherembodiments, different yielding center portions may be formed using auniformly hollow center bar or other techniques, including making asolid center bar of a material with the desired yielding and/ordeformation properties. For example, an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene(ABS) injected molded tubular center bar of approximately three-eighthsto one-quarter inch in diameter. Additionally, the center bar may betapered such that it is narrower in the middle and wider near thewing(s).

[0086]FIG. 21b illustrates one embodiment of a curved center bar. Aspreviously noted, a curved center bar may be the result of a deformationdue to an impact. However, a curved center bar 2110 may also be adesirable ergonomic feature. The curved center bar 2110 may beconstructed with an arc radius (e.g., ten to twenty inches) such thatthe center bar 2110 matches the contour a typical seat headrest. Assuch, the curvature provides several benefits. First, the curvature maycompensate for a typical headrest shape (both the horizontal curvatureand the vertical curvature typically found in headrests). Additionally,the curved center bar 2110 forms an arc to strongly withstand the torquecaused by rotation of the wings, yet is relatively weak and capable ofyielding upon impact from a head.

[0087]FIG. 22 illustrates an alternative headrest arrangement. Theheadrest of FIG. 22 is one embodiment of a one-sided headrest with anover-the-seat, compressive attachment member. The embodiment of FIG. 22includes a wing portion 2200 which is attached by a hinge mechanism 2210to an attachment member 2220. The attachment member 2220 is securable toa headrest of a seat (e.g., an airplane seat, a car seat, a train seat,etc.) by means of compression. For example, the attachment member 2220may be a metal U-shaped member that has a smaller U opening than theexpected seat headrest width, or an adjustable compressive member. Thus,when pressed downwardly over the seat headrest, the embodiment of FIG.22 is held in place by compression. Various different structures may beused to compressively attach to a seat or seat headrest. For example,the U shaped member may be used to slide onto the seat sideways.Alternatively, multiple compressive members may be used to ensure thatthe winged headrest is held in place. Moreover, other materials may beused, so long as they provide some flexibility and resilience.

[0088] The hinge mechanism 2210 may be a torsion or friction hinge aspreviously described. That is, the hinge mechanism 2210 may itselfprovide friction to hold the wing mechanism in place. In someembodiments, the hinge mechanism 2210 may provide sufficient friction tosupport the weight of a human head leaning against the wing portion 2200in variety of positions, yet may be manually moveable when it is desiredthat the wing position be changed.

[0089] More elaborate headrests may also benefit from the use of a wingwhich without user assistance maintains its position. For example, FIG.23a illustrates one embodiment of a headrest 2302 with motorized wingmembers 2300 and 2305. The headrest of FIG. 23a includes a single motor2320 which can drive wing members 2300 and 2305 by respectively belts2325 and 2330. Other conventional or otherwise available drivingmechanisms may be used such as various gearing, direct-drive, and/orbelt mechanisms. The belts 2325 and 2330 drive respectively hingemechanisms 2310 and 2315.

[0090] The wing members 2300 and 2305 may be held in place in severalmanners. In one embodiment, the hinge mechanisms 2310 and 2315 arefriction or torsion hinges as previously described and therefore havefriction to help maintain the wings in a user-selected position. Theuser actuates an electronic control to move both wing members forward orbackward, the motor 2320 having sufficient torque to overcome theresistance of the hinging mechanisms. Gearing or other torque increasingmeans may be used to allow the motor 2320 to drive the wing members.Alternatively, the motor 2320 itself may have sufficient rotationalresistance such that the motor itself holds the wing members in place.Alternatively, a combination of hinge and motor resistance may be usedto maintain the wing members in position.

[0091] The headrest of FIG. 23a may be attached to a lower portion of aseat by stems 2335 a and 2335 b. Such an embodiment may be useful in acar or other motorized vehicle having pre-existing seats adapted toreceive such stems. Alternatively, the headrest portion may beintegrally formed with a lower portion of the seat (e.g., forming a partof a seat as is common in some cars, airplanes, etc.).

[0092]FIG. 23b illustrates another embodiment of a motorized wingedheadrest. In the embodiment of FIG. 23b, two motors 2360 and 2355 may beused to separately drive hinge mechanisms 2365 and 2370 thereby movingrespectively wing members 2375 and 2380. Again, the position of the wingmembers may be maintained in a variety of manners as described withrespect to FIG. 23a. Additionally, however, the wing members may beactuated by a user independently of each other in the embodiment of FIG.23b.

[0093] Additionally, stowing the wings of a motorized headrest may bedesirable in environments such as vehicles. FIG. 23c illustrates oneembodiment having a wing stowing capability. This embodiment may beuseful with motorized headrests such as those shown in FIGS. 23a and 23b; however, such stowable wing members may be used in other embodimentslacking motors. In the embodiment of FIG. 23c, a headrest 2382 includesan indented portion generally indicated by 2384. A wing member 2388 maybe in the downward position as shown by the dashed line, or may bepivoted upwards on pivot point 2386 to an upward stowed position.Notably, some embodiments may simply stow the wing members by rotatingthem upwardly, the indentation to make the wing member flush with theheadrest profile being optional. The headrest may also include one ormore stems such as stem 2389 for attaching to a lower portion of a seat.

[0094] Another embodiment having stowable wing members is shown in FIG.23d. In the embodiment of FIG. 23d, a headrest 2390 includes a stem 2396and an indented portion 2394 indicated by the dashed line. In oneembodiment, a wing member 2394 telescopes backwards on a telescopingassembly. Various telescoping mechanisms may be used. For example, atelescoping rod arrangement may be used, as may other known or otherwiseavailable telescoping mechanisms as may be appropriate for a particulardesign. In another embodiment, the wing member 2392 may fold backward byrotating about the hinge axis for stowing in the indented portion 2394.Some embodiments may not have an indentation and may stow the wingmember merely by rotating it backwards, with the wing member not lyingflush with the headrest.

[0095]FIGS. 24a and 24 b illustrate embodiments having slide-on strapattachment members. For a higher degree of ease of use for someconsumers, it may be desirable to simplify the procedure of attachingthe winged headrest to a seat. One manner in which this may beaccomplished is by allowing the strap to be attached to the seatindependently of the actual support or center bar, the wings and thehinge. Thus, the user is left only with the straightforward task ofattaching a simple strap to an existing seat headrest, and thereaftersliding the assembly over the strap.

[0096] For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 24a, the headrest assemblyis easily separable from an accompanying strap 2420. The headrestassembly includes a support member having support member portions 2400,2403, 2405 and wing members 2440 and 2450. The support member includes avertically extending end portion 2415, having a bore 2410, into which astrap attachment member 2405 may be inserted. For example, the strapattachment member 2405 may be press-fit into the bore 2410. The strapattachment member 2405 extends outwardly (e.g., backward with respect tothe front of the winged headrest) and then downwardly parallel to thevertically extending end portion 2415 as may be also seen from the sideview of FIG. 24b.

[0097] The bottom of the strap attachment member 2405 is spaced slightlyfrom the vertically extending end portion 2415 to provide a slot thatcan accept the strap 2420. Thus, a user may first fasten the strap tothe seat (various clasps, Velcro, or other conventional means may beused to secure the strap). The user may then simply slide the headrestassembly downward over the strap such that the strap attachment membersengage the secured strap and therefore hold the headrest assembly inplace.

[0098]FIG. 24a also illustrates a multiple material support member. Thesupport member includes a center portion 2400 and two outer portions2403 and 2405. In one embodiment, the center portion 2400 is a softermore flexible material, (e.g., a plastic such as injection molded ABS,polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), nylon 6-6, etc.) and the outer portionsare more rigid materials such as stainless steel or a hardened plastic.Such an arrangement may advantageously provide a sufficiently rigidstructure to allow a user to move the wings when strapped to the seat,and additionally provide a yielding center portion. In one embodiment,the strap attachment members of FIG. 24a may be omitted and the straplooped over the vertically extending end portions. In this embodiment,it may be advantageous to provide vertically extending end portionshaving a height of at least the strap width greater than the wing height(e.g., see FIG. 28), so there is sufficient space to strap the headrestassembly to the seat. Additionally, strap guides indented into thevertically extending end portions may be helpful in this embodiment.

[0099]FIG. 25 illustrates another embodiment of a headrest assemblywhich may be secured by a strap 2510. In the embodiment of FIG. 25, asingle integral tubular member 2500 forms the center support member andforms fold-over end portions to provide support for hingedly attachedwing members 2540 and 2550 and to guide strap attachment. The fold-overend portion may be a bend upwards, a first vertically extending portionin the tubular member 2500, followed by a bend 2530 (transverseportion), and a second vertically extending portion of the tubularmember 2500. The downward outermost portion may form the axis for ahinging mechanism 2520 to attach the wing member 2540. The hingingmechanism 2520 may be any of the variety of torsion or friction hingesas previously discussed. The wing member 2550 may be similarly attached.As previously discussed, the hinge mechanism may be a torsion orfriction hinging mechanism (e.g., a press-fit hinge) that provides anappropriate amount of resistance to support the weight of a head leaningagainst the wing member yet be manually movable.

[0100] The multiple vertically oriented portions also have the benefitof confining a strap 2510 that secures the winged headrest to a seat. Inthe embodiment shown in FIG. 25, the strap 2510 extends between theupward portion and the downward portion and exerts a force holding theheadrest assembly in place. The headrest assembly is prevented fromsliding too far downwardly because the bend portion limits the upwardmovement of the strap relative to the headrest assembly.

[0101] Although an integral tubular member may be a cost effectiveimplementation, other implementations may not use a single integraltubular member. For example, multiple members may be used for the centerportion and the two perpendicularly oriented portions, as well as theirattachment to each other. Moreover, different shapes may be used, suchas an H-shaped assembly, connecting the two vertical members in themiddle. Other alternative shapes will be apparent to those of skill inthe art. Furthermore, the tubular member need not be tubular in allembodiments. A variety of center members, from large flat surfaces(e.g., where the headrest assembly is integral to a seat) to otherextruded shapes (e.g., rectangular, trapezoidal, curved, arched, orcustomized) may be used.

[0102] Another alternative is to omit the structural center portionaltogether. FIG. 26a illustrates one embodiment utilizing a strap 2610and support member 2620 attached to the strap 2610 to support a hingedwing member 2630. As discussed with respect to other embodiments, thewing member 2630 may be attached using a hinge 2640 which may be avariety of frictional or torsion hinge mechanisms. The strap 2610 may bestrapped and secured about a headrest 2600. A strap attachment member2650 attaches the headrest assembly to the strap 2610. In the embodimentof FIG. 26a, the support member 2620 is attached behind the strap 2610.The support member 2620 is a semi-rigid support member which providessome weight and rigidity to counter moments produced by a user movingthe wing member 2630. The support member may be cloth, foam, rubber,elastomer, thermoplastic, or a combination of these or other convenientmaterials. The support member may be attached to the strap by a glue,sewing or a conventional attachment technique.

[0103] The embodiment of FIG. 26b illustrates an alternative embodimentin which the support member 2620 is attached to a front side of thestrap 2610. The embodiment of FIG. 26b also illustrates a loop 2612 inthe strap 2610 adapted to receive a strap attachment member 2650 whichis attached to the assembly of the hinge 2640 and wing member 2630. Thestrap attachment member 2650 may be press fit into a bore in the top ofthe hinge 2640. FIG. 26b also shows the adhesive 2622, which may beglue, sewing, or other conventional attachment means, which adheres thestrap 2610 to the support member 2620.

[0104]FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment having a hinged center supportmember. In some embodiments, a headrest assembly with a hinged supportmember may be useful to adjust position of the wings and/or to adjustthe relative position of the wings with respect to a portion of thecenter bar. The ability of the center hinge to yield may also be usefulin avoiding head injuries in a crash situation. In the embodiment ofFIG. 27, a left member 2710 and a right member 2720 are attached by acenter hinge 2730. The center hinge 2730 may be a friction or torsionhinge providing some resistance to movement of the left member 2710relative to the right member 2720. Wings 2740 and 2750 may be hingedlyattached as described with respect to other embodiments, and variousdescribed or other means may be used to secure the headrest assembly toseat.

[0105]FIG. 28 illustrates another embodiment of a winged headrest. Theembodiment of FIG. 28 includes several features that may allow low costproduction yet allow a high quality final product. For example, in oneembodiment, a center member 2805 is integrally formed with twovertically extending foot portions (e.g., foot portion 2810). The footportion is the portion below the wing and above or adjacent to thecenter member 2805. The foot portion on the right side is shown withouta wing portion attached to provide additional details. A bore 2820 isformed in the right side foot portion. The bore 2820 is a slightlyundersized bore such that a rod (e.g., a stainless steel rod) may beinserted into the bore 2820 to provide a press-fit friction hinge. Inone embodiment, the wings are plastic and molded over the stainlesssteel rods which insert into the bores in the feet.

[0106] Each foot is widened out in comparison to the cross bar betweenthe two feet. The wider foot provides a larger surface area to contactthe usually compressive front surface of a seat. The larger surface areaof the foot provides better support to counter the moment caused whenthe wing 2850 is moved while the winged headrest is attached to a seat.In some embodiments, the feet are a harder material than the centermember, thereby providing rigidity and durability where needed, yetallowing the center member to flex and yield in the event of impact. Forexample, in one embodiment, the feet and center member are made of anABS plastic. The feet may, however, be twenty percent glass-filled ABSto provide additional stiffness. In some embodiments, the feet may notbe integrally formed, but rather may be fastened together (e.g., whenfastening together two pieces is cheaper, safer, or otherwise betterthan processing a multi-material integral piece).

[0107] In the embodiment of FIG. 28, a strap 2830 may be seated directlybelow the wing members. A guide for the strap may be included in theupper portion of each foot. A user can strap the strap 2830 around aseat first, and then slide the headrest assembly downwardly between thestrap and seat such that the strap aligns in the strap guides. Thebottom portion of each foot may be rounded to facilitate insertionbehind the strap.

[0108] To accommodate users of various heights, a user may choose toadjust where the strap is attached to the seat or where the strap fallson the headrest assembly (i.e., how far downwardly the headrest isinserted behind the strap). Some embodiments may include multiple strapguides to allow flexibility in positioning of the headrest. With suchadjustments, a wide variety of users of different sizes are able to finda comfortable position, such as having the wing supporting the user'scheek and the cross-bar (center member 2805) fitting the cavity of theuser's neck.

[0109] The embodiment of FIG. 28 also includes safety features. First,the wing 2850 can be bowed slightly outwardly (see, e.g., FIGS. 16a, 16b, 17, 21 a, 21 b). Additionally, the wing 2850 has an outer frame, buthas a cavity 2860 to reduce the rigidity of the wing frame. The cavitymay be one oblong cavity as shown or may be two or more separate holesdrilled or otherwise formed in a process such as injection molding. Dueto the outward bow of the wing, impacts cause the wing to bendoutwardly, providing a moment that causes the wing to rotate outwardly.The cavity or holes in the wing also enhance the outward moment when thewing is impacted. Notably, the wings may have rounded surfaces forsafety and comfort, and are typically covered by a padding when in use.

[0110] In one embodiment, each rod which forms the axis of the hinge is0.3700 to 0.3702 inches, and the bores in the plastic of the headrestassembly that receive the rods are 0.3685 to 0.3690 inches, resulting inan interference of approximately ten to fifteen ten-thousandths of aninch. This embodiment requires a torque of approximately fifteen tothirty inch-pounds of torque to move each wing. Additionally, in thisone specific example, the center bar may be approximately 7.4 inches inlength and approximately three-eighths inch in diameter, the wingsapproximately two inches in height and five inches in length.

[0111] In one embodiment, a pivot such as that shown in FIG. 23c may beadded to a headrest having an elongated center member with verticallyextending end portions such as the embodiment of FIG. 28. In thisembodiment, the user can also use the headrest in a U-shapedconfiguration. If the hinges are used to rotated the wings toapproximately perpendicular to the center bar and then rotated upwardlyon the pivots, a U shape results. The user may therefore gain anadditional headrest position (although padding over the center portionmay be desirable in this position).

[0112] An embodiment of a vibrating headrest is shown in FIG. 29. In theembodiment of FIG. 29, a wing 2940 is hingedly attached to a headrest2930 by a friction hinge strapped to the headrest. The wing 2940includes a motor 2910 powered by a battery 2920. Alternatively, themotor may be powered by DC or AC current supplied from external to thewing, external to the headrest, or external to the seat. The motor 2910has a rotor with a bent portion and a mass attached thereto to provide asubtle vibrating of the wing 2940. Other known or otherwise availablevibration techniques or mechanisms may be used as well. In any case, theuser may enjoy a massage while using the headrest. Additionally,vibration mechanisms may be provided in both wings, and/or in the centermember 2930. Furthermore, a vibration mechanism may be added to any ofthe variety of headrests in wing or center portions.

[0113] Additionally, the vibrating wing concept may be applicable as usefor a general therapeutic device. For example, the wing may be strappedvia the strap (or otherwise secured) to a person, and the friction hingemay be positioned and maintain enough pressure to hold the vibratingwing in place. A power adapter to plug in may be desirable fortherapeutic device embodiments, as may be a more rigorous vibrationmechanism to apply sufficient vibration to have therapeutic effect. Apower switch which may have adjustments such as vibrating frequency,intensity, etc., may be provided on the center member, thereby allowingthe user to adjust the vibration and pressure to an appropriate level,and then to let the wings maintain the position of the assembly. Thewings may have one or both sides as a rubberized material instead of afoam pad which would damped vibrations. In alternative embodiments, thewings may additionally or instead of the vibration mechanism have eitheror both of a heating element and a transdermal electrical musclestimulant (TEMS) element.

[0114] Embodiments such as those shown in FIGS. 7, 21b, and 28 withcross bar members may employ vibrating (or otherwise therapy-providing)wings to form a massager, wherein the torsion of the vibrating wingsclamps the assembly onto a muscle or body portion. For example, thewings may clamp the entire assembly onto a thigh in order to massagethat thigh. A strap may be unnecessary in some embodiments, with justthe pressure maintained by the torsion hinges holding the assembly inplace. It may also be desirable to increase the torque requirement tomove the wings, to a minimum of between twenty-five and fifty inchpounds. Additionally, it may be desirable to employ a hinged centermember (see, e.g., FIG. 27) a telescoping center member, or an otherwiseadjustable center member to adjust the distance between the wings. Anadjustable center member allows various muscle groups or body parts tobe clamped between the vibrating wings, to apply a therapeutic massage.The adjustable center member may provide a locking mechanism so thatonce the user has determined the desired wing width, the center membercan be locked so that the wings may be rotated without inadvertentlychanging the center member adjustment.

[0115] Advantageously, some embodiments of the friction hinge basedmassager allow hands-free operation. One major drawback of many currentmassagers is the need to continually apply pressure and/or to hold themassager in place. By the use of friction hinges to clamp the assemblyin place (and perhaps an additional optional strap), the need to holdthe assembly in place may be reduced and/or eliminated. Moreover, thefriction hinge assembly is quite compact (especially when in a thefolded position) and much less cumbersome than many other massagedevices. Furthermore, an assembly with friction hinge mounted wings canbe an all-in-one headrest and versatile massager. In one instance it maybe used as a headrest, but it may also be used as a massager. One sideof each wing may be a relatively hard or rubberized material (e.g.,thermoplastic elastomer, rubberized polyurethane, or Santoprene) thattransmits vibration, and the other side may be padded. An optionalheadrest strap used to secure some embodiments to the seat can double asa strap to secure the massager to a particular body part, and anoptional adjustable center member may allow easy adjustment to headwidths as well as other body parts.

[0116]FIG. 30 illustrates another example of an integral wingedheadrest. In the embodiment of FIG. 30, the winged headrest is includedas a part of a stretcher, with the center member being a portion of thestretcher itself. Two wings 2910 and 2920 are hingedly attached to thestretcher by a friction hinge. A rod 2930 forming the hinge axis may besnapped into or otherwise secured to the stretcher itself. The rod 2930or a portion thereof may be housed in a casing to facilitate a reliableand flush connection to the stretcher.

[0117] In the case of a stretcher, a friction hinge which yields at ahigher force may be appropriate due to the importance of immobilizingthe head of the person on the stretcher. Thus, a torque of thirty toforty inch-pounds may be required to move each wing. The wings may bepositioned in apertures in the stretcher. The apertures may be cut-outportions, holes formed in the stretcher, or just recesses in the surfaceof the stretcher. The apertures may extend outwardly to form a handlesimilar to other handles (e.g., handle 2950) typically found on astretcher.

[0118] Additionally, it may be desirable to use easily cleaned paddingand/or covers for the wings 2910. For example, a closed cell foam, avinyl dipped closed cell foam, or other readily washable materials thatwill generally not hold contaminants may be used to cushion the wings.Furthermore, it may also be desirable to have larger wings in the caseof a stretcher, and perhaps a wing-locking strap. It may be desirable toprevent a patient from seeing what is happening in the vicinity and/orto ensure the entire head is immobilized using larger wings.Accordingly, one embodiment uses wings of ten inches in length and threeto five inches in width. To lock the wings, a strap may wrap aroundupper portions of both wings, thereby preventing the wings from rotatingdownwardly.

[0119]FIG. 31 illustrates another application of the winged headrestconcept. In the embodiment of FIG. 31, a child seat is equipped with twowings on friction or torsion hinge mechanisms. Wings 3110 and 3130 arehingedly attached to the child seat, and can support the weight of thechild's head leaning against the wing. Due to the lighter weight of achild's head, the hinging mechanism may yield, allowing rotation of thewing when a force of between ten and twenty inch pounds is applied.Moreover, the wing members may be smaller than in some otherembodiments. For example, in one embodiment, the wings may be five tosix inches apart, three to four inches in length, and one to threeinches in height.

[0120] The wings may be attached to the child seat in a variety ofmanners. In the illustrated embodiment, rods 3130 and 3140 are providedfor mounting of the wings 3110 and 3120. As indicated with respect towing 3110, the wing may be movable along the rod 3140 to provideadjustment for different size (height) children. The wings may pivot onthe rod 3140 or may pivot on a sliding portion attached to the rod.Alternatively, the wings may be connected to the baby seat by frictionhinge mechanisms directly affixed to or molded into the child seat.

[0121] The rods 3130 and 3140 may be molded into side portions of thechild seat as indicated in FIG. 31, or they may be molded into ormounted onto the back portion of the child seat if it is desirable toplace the wings closer together than a mounting on the side portionswould allow. In either case, the wings can be rotated about the hingingmechanism to provide a resting position for the child's head. In anotheralternative embodiment, the hinging mechanisms may be slidablehorizontally to accommodate children with different head widths. In anycase, the friction hinge winged headrest may be quite effectivelyutilized in a variety of arrangements for a child seat.

[0122] Thus, a description of various features and embodiments ofheadrests has been provided. While certain exemplary embodiments havebeen described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to beunderstood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and notrestrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention not belimited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown anddescribed, since various other modifications may occur to thoseordinarily skilled in the art upon studying this disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A headrest comprising: a rear head supportportion; a first head support wing member rotatable upwardly anddownwardly relative to the rear head support portion, the first headsupport wing member being rotatable vertically to a first head supportposition from a first stowed position, said first head support wingmember also being pivotable horizontally relative to the rear headsupport portion.
 2. The headrest of claim 1 further comprising: aninterconnecting member comprising at least one stem to engage a seat. 3.The headrest of claim 1 further comprising: a second head support wingmember rotatable upwardly and downwardly relative to the rear headsupport portion independently of the first head support wing member, thesecond head support wing member being rotatable downwardly to a secondhead support position from a second stowed position, the second headsupport wing member also being pivotable horizontally relative to therear head support portion.
 4. The headrest of claim 3 wherein said firsthead support wing member and said second head support wing member eachcomprise an elongated head support wing member having a first endportion and a crash compressive portion, wherein the elongated headsupport wing member rotates about a pivotal attachment to the rear headsupport portion that couples to the first end portion of the elongatedhead support wing member.
 5. The headrest of claim 3 wherein said firsthead support wing member is flush with said rear head support portion insaid first stowed position and wherein said second head support wingmember is flush with said rear head support portion in said secondstowed position.
 6. The headrest of claim 1 wherein said first headsupport wing member sustains a load of a human head leaning against thefirst head support wing member in a plurality of in-use positions butmoves when a greater force is applied.
 7. The headrest of claim 5wherein said first head support wing member sustains the load of a humanhead leaning against the first head support wing member in a pluralityof positions throughout a range of motion but moves when a greater forceis applied.
 8. A seat comprising: a first head support member pivotablyattached to a first seat portion by a first pivotal attachment coupledto a first end of the first head support member, the first head supportmember being movable via the first pivotal attachment in a firstdirection and in a second direction that is substantially transverse tothe first direction; a second head support member pivotably attached toa second seat portion by a second pivotal attachment coupled to a firstend of the second head support member, the second head support memberbeing movable via the second pivotal attachment in the first directionand in a third direction substantially transverse to the firstdirection.
 9. The seat of claim 8 wherein said first head support memberand said second head support member are independently pivotable.
 10. Theseat of claim 9 wherein said first head support member is to support aload of a human head leaning against the first head support member in aplurality of in-use positions, said first head support member to movewhen a greater force than the load of the human head leaning against thefirst head support member is applied.
 11. The seat of claim 8 whereinsaid first head support member and said second head support member aremotorized and controllable by a user.
 12. A headrest comprising: aheadrest body portion; a first head support member pivotably attached tothe headrest body portion by a first frictional mechanism, the firsthead support member being pivotable relative to the headrest bodyportion to a first plurality of in-use positions, the first head supportmember being maintained in any of the first plurality of in-usepositions under a load of human head leaning against the first headsupport member, the first head support member to move if a greater loadthan the load of a human head leaning against the first head supportmember is applied.
 13. The headrest of claim 12 further comprising: asecond head support member pivotably attached to the headrest bodyportion by a second frictional mechanism, the second head support memberbeing independently pivotable relative to the headrest body portion to asecond plurality of in-use positions, the second head support memberbeing maintained in any of the second plurality of in-use positionsunder the load of the human head leaning against the second head supportmember, the second head support member to move if the greater load thanthe load of the human head leaning against the second head supportmember is applied.
 14. The headrest of claim 12 wherein said first headsupport member is pivotable vertically relative to the headrest bodyportion.
 15. The headrest of claim 14 further comprising: at least onestem member extending substantially vertically downwardly from theheadrest body portion.
 16. The headrest of claim 15 wherein said firsthead support member is also pivotable horizontally relative the headrestbody portion.
 17. The headrest of claim 12 wherein said first headsupport member is pivotable horizontally relative the headrest bodyportion.
 18. The headrest of claim 17 further comprising a rotation stopto limit forward horizontal rotation of the first head support memberfrom a flat position to an acute angle with respect to the flatposition.
 19. The headrest of claim 13 wherein said first head supportmember and said second head support member are each pivotable inmultiple directions.
 20. The headrest of claim 13 wherein the each ofthe first head support member and the second head support member isunassistedly maintained in a continuous plurality of positionsthroughout a range of motion under the load of the human head leaningagainst the respective head support member but moves when the greaterload is applied.